Pakistan Sets Conditions for Dialogue with Taliban Amid Tensions

The government of Pakistan has set new conditions for initiating talks with the Taliban, asking for written guarantees regarding counter-terrorism efforts and border management.

Pakistan Conditions Dialogue with the Taliban on Written Assurances

Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Tahir Andarabi, announced that Islamabad is prepared to engage in dialogue with the Taliban, but such discussions must lead to written commitments and verifiable actions in the realm of counter-terrorism.

Andarabi emphasized that Pakistan is hopeful the Taliban will independently adhere to their international obligations. He also stated that the country requires assurances that Afghan territory will not be used for terrorist activities against Pakistan. According to him, verbal guarantees are insufficient, and Islamabad is seeking written and verifiable promises.

Pakistan’s Concerns Over Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan Activities

Andarabi urged the Taliban to prevent the activities of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Baloch Liberation Army from being carried out on Afghan soil. He expressed concern that the activities of armed groups within Afghanistan pose a threat to Pakistan, and his country is looking for practical measures to stop the use of Afghan territory against itself.

The spokesperson also referred to India, stating that if Taliban activities are ordered by a neighboring country to promote terrorism in Pakistan, Islamabad will be compelled to recognize the Taliban regime as a proxy force. He added that the Islamabad government is aware of Indian interference in terrorist activities originating from Afghan soil and has evidence to support these claims.

Tense Pakistan-Taliban Relations Post-2021

Relations between Pakistan and the Taliban have become significantly strained following the latter’s takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021. Islamabad accuses the Taliban of allowing the TTP to operate from Afghan territory. Conversely, the Taliban rejects these accusations and accuses Pakistan of supporting its armed opponents.

Additionally, Pakistan has accused India of aiding the TTP and Baloch groups, claiming that India uses Afghan territory for anti-Pakistan activities, a charge India has consistently denied.